Taking Care of You: Reflections for Mental Health Month

Time to smell the flowers now that I have taken my allergy medication ;-)

May is Mental Health Month—a time to reflect on the importance of emotional well-being, advocate for mental health awareness, and, perhaps most importantly, care for ourselves meaningfully. While the month brings widespread campaigns and community events, it can also stir up a mix of feelings, especially for those of us living with a mental health diagnosis. Many programs call diagnosis or struggles mental health 'challenges'; however, these days, I don't see my anxiety or trauma as a challenge - I have done a great job of managing my health issues!

The truth is, mental health challenges don’t wait for awareness months. They show up in the quiet moments, the busy days, and the times we least expect. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year, and over 50% of those adults do not receive treatment. That statistic alone is a reminder that while conversations about mental health are increasing, support and self-compassion remain critical.

Mental Health Month isn’t about pushing ourselves to do more—it’s about honoring what we need. Whether that means taking a break from social obligations, finding a new therapist, journaling more, moving our bodies, or simply resting—it's all valid. The CDC reports that regular self-care, including sleep, movement, and connection, can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

If you live with a diagnosis—whether it’s anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or another condition—this month might bring up deeper emotions. That's okay. Let it be a gentle nudge to prioritize yourself, even if the world around you keeps moving fast.

Here are a few ways to care for yourself this May:

• Create boundaries around your energy and time.

• Check in with your care team or revisit coping strategies.

• Engage in small joys that bring comfort and calm.

• Reach out—to a friend, a support group, or a helpline if needed (988 or 741741 are great examples)

  
  

Mental health deserves year-round attention, yet May can serve as a reset button—a chance to remember that healing isn’t linear, and we don’t have to do it alone.

You are not a burden. You are worthy of care.

Let this month be a reminder of that.